Which big 4x4 to go for with €9,000 budget?

I am thinking of buying a second hand four-wheel drive. Something like a Range Rover, Land Rover, Volkswagen Touareg or similiar. I only have €9,000 to spend therefore will be looking at anything from 2003 to 2006. Most have about 120,000 miles or more. I am worried I might end up in a whole load of pain buying something that old. Any suggestions?

I know there are the old reliables like the Kia Soretno and Hyundai Sante Fe, but I am afraid they are a little bland for me.

Michael Butler (Lucan)

Sep 2014 Filed under: choosing used car

---

Expert answer

Hi Michael,

Well, the simple secret is to buy very carefully and don’t touch anything that doesn’t come with a full and complete service history. Old Land Rovers and Range Rovers are always a bit troublesome (although much less so than they used to be), but a Touareg should be a solid choice. Of course, if you want ultimate reliability you should just buy a Toyota Land Cruiser...

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor
@neilmbriscoe